If you have black lung disease (coal workers' pneumoconiosis) or COPD, we're here for you.
The Pa. Black Lung Coalition helps coal miners and others get the care and compensation needed for a better quality of life. It's an independent, federally-funded partnership with the Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
To make an appointment, call 814-889-2853 or 1-866-538-9884.
Even if you're not showing any symptoms, black lung can still be present.
You should get tested if you:
Black lung forms slowly and may start causing symptoms long after you leave the coal mines. Having a baseline test now will also help us compare with future results.
If you think you have lung problems from mining, you may be able to get benefits under the Federal Black Lung Act.
The U.S. Department of Labor will pay for testing if you file a claim for Federal Black Lung benefits. If you want testing only and have health insurance, your plan might have to pay the bill.
You might qualify for our services if you have a breathing problem and a doctor's diagnosis of one of the following:
You can refer yourself for care at the UPMC Altoona Black Lung Program.
Or other sources can refer you, such as:
The UPMC Altoona Black Lung Program offers:
We also provide:
Visit the websites below for more black lung disease resources:
